Set in the world of international espionage, the series is written and created by Spotnitz and was commissioned earlier this year with the title Morton.

The writer teased: “I’m incredibly excited about the ambition of this series. It’s got action on a cinematic scale, huge story twists and turns, and intriguing characters who are both emotionally and morally complex. I can’t imagine a better cast, director or production team to bring it all to life.”

The cast of Nemesis was announced this week, including Melissa George (Alias), Adam Rayner (Mistresses), Stephen Dillane (Game of Thrones) and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (Lost).

Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning, commented on the casting: “Melissa George is a fantastic choice to play BBC One’s new leading lady known as Sam, a complex and mysterious Bourne style female spy unlike anyone we’ve seen on TV before.”

Chief Executive, Kudos Film and Television, Jane Featherstone, added: “Casting the lead role of Sam was always going to be a challenge, and we are very lucky to have the brilliant Melissa George in the role. She’ll bring guts, subtlety and strength to the role, which is exactly what we need. Starring opposite Melissa is the brilliant Adam Rayner as Aidan, together their fantastically complicated romance will keep audiences gripped.”